Vandwellers

Vandweller is a term used to describe people who live, full or part time, in vans or other motor vehicles. It first came into popular use on the Yahoo Vandwellers group, and has become more wide spread through other web sites and on YouTube videos. Typical Vandwellers convert vans into a campers themselves however many live in comercially built camper vans. Unlike the RV community, Vandwellers prefer to keep a low profile and avoid expensive camp grounds. Many find safe parking on residential streets, in factory parking lots, and at all night businesses. This constant dance is called ‘stealth camping’.
Vans used by Vandwellers may be small or full size standard vans. Windowless types are often preferred. Not all Vandwllers live in vans, but also in utility trailers, RVs, campers, trucks of all types and converted buses. They are fitted out by their owners with beds, storage for clothing, sink, small water tanks, stoves, small refrigerator or cooler and Chemical toilet. Other amenities may include a dual battery systems, solar cell panels, sky lights, vents, televisions, and WIFI Internet connections.
A Vandweller may be a weekender, seasonal part-timer, or full-timer who lives in a van year round. Some travel widely while others stay within a small area. Long or expensive commuting has given rise to a group of Vandwellers who live in their vehicle near work or school and return home on weekends. Vandwellers are not usually unemployed; some work regular jobs, others work out of their vans or have internet businesses. Retirees and pensioners are some of the most seasoned full timers.
Reasons for Vandwelling vary. Many choose to live in their vans simply because they enjoy doing so. Some may do so for economic reasons. The recent banking crisis has been linked to an increase in ‘Mobile Homelessness’. Most Vandwellers, however, do not consider themselves to be homeless, but their vans are well maintained and sturdy homes.

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